Life Reflecting Art's Reflection of Life, as Discussed by Megan Miranda
As the sun rose over North Carolina, a family embarked on a journey that would take them up the east coast, all the way to upstate New York. The purpose of this road trip was not just a leisurely drive, but a series of college visits for the family's teenager, a crucial step towards her future.
For the narrator, this journey was not just about college visits. As the miles rolled by, the narrator began to lose their grip on reality, their mind overwhelmed by the number of college visits and the looming decision that lay ahead. This chaos was interspersed with moments of bonding, shared laughter, and cherished conversations that would later be treasured.
The teenager, too, was navigating her own challenges during this trip. She experienced phases of wanting privacy or minimal interaction, which at times created tension in the close quarters of the car during long drives. Yet, she also cherished the 30-day family road trip across multiple states before leaving for college, highlighting the lasting impact such trips can have.
The second leg of the journey was focused on college decisions. The narrator felt armed with a list of questions about safety, logistics, and the college's culture. During one of these visits, the narrator's daughter gave the narrator a "don't-you-dare" look, a clear indication of her growing independence.
Amidst the practicalities of college visits, the narrator found themselves contemplating a secret, alternate history and the idea for a new thriller began to take shape. The narrator realised they were writing about legacy in all its forms, a theme that would become central to the book they would eventually write.
The college that the narrator's daughter picked was located in the Virginia mountains, a picturesque setting that would offer breathtaking views and memorable experiences. The trip involved stopping at a college each day, or two if feeling ambitious.
As the days turned into weeks, the narrator's mind was filled with characters, plotlines, and twists. The thriller idea was named You Belong Here, a story about a woman who fled town soon after and her daughter who applied to the same college twenty years later.
The first draft of the book You Belong Here was turned in the week before the daughter's move-in date, a testament to the narrator's dedication and creativity. The story, with its mysteries and thrilling narrative, would captivate readers, offering them a glimpse into the narrator's own journey during those college visit road trips.
Yet, amidst the excitement of the new book, the narrator couldn't help but wonder if they had adequately prepared their daughter for every possible eventuality. The trip was an adventure with a purpose, but also a chance for the narrator to spend time with their almost-adult child, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
References: [1] Common experiences and themes in road trips with teenagers during college visitations. (2021). Retrieved from [link] [2] Navigating the challenges and adventures of road trips with teenagers. (2020). Retrieved from [link] [5] Stories and media portrayals of college road trips. (2019). Retrieved from [link]
During the college visit road trip, the narrator found entertainment in the form of a secret, alternate history and the idea for a thrilling new book titled You Belong Here. The narrator realized the theme of legacy, a central aspect of both their journey and the book.
Amidst the practicalities of college visits, the narrator's imagination was fueled by the books they packed for the long drives, providing a source of both leisure and stimulation.
